Truehearted, Wholehearted - Hymn With Lyrics

1. True-hearted, whole-hearted, faithful and loyal,
King of our lives, by Thy grace we will be;
Under the standard exalted and royal,
Strong in Thy strength we will battle for Thee.

Chorus:
Peal out the watchword! silence it never!
Song of our spirits, rejoicing and free
Peal out the watchword! loyal forever,
King of our lives, by Thy grace we will be.

2. True-hearted, whole-hearted, fullest allegiance
Yielding henceforth to our glorious King;
Valiant endeavor and loving obedience,
Freely and joyously now would we bring. (Chorus)

3. True-hearted, whole-hearted, Savior all-glorious!
Take Thy great power and reign Thou alone,
Over our wills and affections victorious,
Freely surrendered and wholly Thine own. (Chorus)

Scripture; 

1 Chronicles 29:17, 

Psalm 9:1, 

Psalm 119:69, 

Romans 5:17

The hymn "Truehearted, Wholehearted" is a stirring Christian hymn that calls believers to give their full devotion, loyalty, and zeal to Christ. Here's the story behind it:

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Authorship:

The lyrics were written by Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879), a beloved English hymn writer, poet, and devout Anglican. Havergal was known as the "consecration poet" because her hymns often emphasize total commitment and surrender to Jesus Christ.

She wrote "Truehearted, Wholehearted" as a spiritual anthem of loyalty to Christ — a kind of Christian battle cry for wholehearted service. Like many of her hymns, it reflects her deep personal piety and desire to motivate believers to live for Christ without compromise.

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Historical Context and Themes:

Frances Havergal lived during the Victorian era, a time when personal holiness and missionary zeal were highly emphasized in the evangelical Christian world. This hymn fits into that context as a call to action—for Christians to live boldly and faithfully, without fear or half-heartedness.

Key themes include:

• Loyalty to Jesus (“King of our lives, by thy grace we will be”)

• Zeal and devotion (“Glad in thy service, and constant in love”)

• Spiritual warfare imagery, encouraging courage and perseverance in a battle of faith

It was often sung in youth gatherings, missionary rallies, and church services, particularly to inspire young people to take a firm stand for Christ.

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Musical Setting:

The hymn has been set to a few different tunes over time. One of the most commonly associated tunes is "True Hearted" by George C. Stebbins (1846–1945), a prolific American gospel composer. His melody complements the strong, marching rhythm of the lyrics.

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Legacy:

Though not as universally known as some of Havergal’s other hymns (like “Take My Life and Let It Be”), "Truehearted, Wholehearted" remains a powerful hymn in circles that cherish classic hymns of consecration and mission. It’s often used at:

• Church youth conferences

• Dedication or ordination services

• Women's gatherings (Havergal was particularly influential in devotional materials for women)

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In Havergal’s Own Words:

Frances Havergal once described her hymn writing as simply an outpouring of what was already in her heart:

"I believe my King suggests a thought, and whispers it to me, and that it is my work to put it down for others."

"Truehearted, Wholehearted" is a clear example of her deep spiritual convictions finding voice in verse.